Improved cookstove distribution in Rwanda

Improved cookstoves burning less fuel reducing the burden on women and children

The use of biomass, in particular firewood, holds huge importance in Rwanda and accounts for at least 86% of energy consumption. Wood fuel is in particularly high demand, especially in rural areas where 98% of households rely on wood as their main cooking fuel. Traditionally, families in rural Rwanda cook using a three-stone open fire. This method is inefficient and leads to unsustainable usage of non-renewable biomass, as well as exposing households to hazardous indoor air pollution, putting pressure on the local environment, and placing a burden on those who collect wood fuel, predominantly women and girls.

Improved cookstove distribution in Rwanda

Info

Purchase type

This project provides a verified carbon credit that can be retired on purchase.

CCP Accreditation

Verified by: Gold Standard

Active since: 20 February 2025

Categories

Carbon Improved Cookstoves

Background

The use of biomass, in particular firewood, holds huge importance in Rwanda and accounts for at least 86% of energy consumption. Wood fuel is in particularly high demand, especially in rural areas where 98% of households rely on wood as their main cooking fuel. Traditionally, families in rural Rwanda cook using a three-stone open fire. This project distributes efficient cookstoves, reducing carbon emissions, improving air quality and enhancing the lives of local people.

Why did we choose this project?

Burning wood is inefficient and leads to unsustainable usage of non-renewable biomass, as well as exposing households to hazardous indoor air pollution, and placing a burden on those who collect wood fuel, predominantly women and girls. In Rwanda, household air pollution is the highest contributor to the country’s disease burden by causing respiratory infections. The improved cookstoves require less fuel and are more efficient than conventional stoves, they reduce the burden on women and children, who are generally responsible for collecting firewood and cooking.

How does it work?

Having operated in Rwanda since 2013, the project has built long-standing relationships to develop high-impact initiatives across the country. To date, it has distributed over 20,000 improved cookstoves in the Bugesera District in Rwanda's Eastern Province. In addition to reducing firewood consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, the improved stoves also reduce cooking time and household air pollution.

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Location

Rwanda

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Improved cookstove distribution in Rwanda

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